Healthy cholesterol levels are no laughing matter, and neither are the medications to help you achieve these levels. Every drug has it pros and cons, and most have a generic form that is just as effective as the name brand. Niacin, however, is slightly different from the rest. Some manufacturers offer an alternative they claim is just as effective, minus the most common side effect -- flush. These claims of efficacy are questionable, though. Consult with your physician first.
Niacin
As a B vitamin, niacin is often sold in supplement form, or as part of a multivitamin. It has several purposes, which includes but are not limited to keeping your digestive and nervous system functioning properly. Although most cholesterol medications focus on lowering your LDL -- "bad" cholesterol -- niacin is most effective for increasing your HDL -- "good" cholesterol, according to MayoClinic.com. When taking it to improve your cholesterol, it is necessary to take higher doses that are only available as a prescription. The prescription forms of niacin are Niaspan and Niacor.
Flush
Flush, or flushing, is the most common side effect of niacin, and causes a warm, tingling or itching feeling on your skin that is accompanied by redness. It can occur anywhere on your body, but most commonly appears on your face and upper body. Although it poses no health risk, flush can be extremely uncomfortable for some people. According to Arthur Schoenstadt, M.D., of eMedTV.com, the severity of flush often makes people discontinue niacin.
Flush-Free Niacin
Several forms of niacin are available, but choose them carefully. Schoenstadt warns against products containing niacinamide, also known as nicotinamide. Although these products do not cause flush, they have no effect on your cholesterol. Inositol nicotinate is another product to beware of. Your body breaks it down slowly into niacin to help reduce flush, but there is not enough evidence to determine if inositol nicotinate benefits cholesterol. Nonprescription niacin, sold as slow-, controlled- or time-released, is claimed to reduce flushing. The drawback is the increased risk for liver damage. This risk is lower with prescription niacin.
Prevention
There are ways to reduce or prevent flushing while taking prescription niacin. If flushing is a problem, talk to your doctor. He can adjust the dose for you. Beginning at a lower dose and gradually working up to a higher dose is another preventative measure. You can also take an aspirin prior to your dose of niacin, or take your dose at night with a low-fat snack. Cleveland Clinic reports that over-the-counter, no-flush supplements have no impact on your cholesterol. If you still find flush to be a problem after trying various coping methods, you may require a different medication.
